The Bermuda Netball Association kicks off its 50th anniversary celebrations with the start of the new Winter League season at Bernard Park today.

After an opening ceremony and welcome address at 1pm, action gets under way with the with the Harold “Doc” Dowling Tournament for juniors, including under-11, under-14 and under-17, and the Sylvia Eastley Tournament for senior players.

While matches are expected to competitive, starting this season none of the under-11 age-group match scores or standings will be published by the association owing to it being considered a developmental league with a focus on enjoyment and skills building.

“The Bermuda Netball Association is ecstatic to be celebrating 50 years in existence,” said Kimale Evans, president of the Bermuda Netball Association. “We are excited to kicking off with the Sylvia Eastley Tournament. She was a huge advocate and one of the persons who pushed to help get the association going so we celebrate her for what she did for us.

“Harold Dowling has also been a huge component of netball over the years, particularly assisting junior netball players to travel overseas and represent Bermuda at international events.

“I would like to also pay homage to those who came before me, the likes of Larry Dennis, Debra Saltus and Tracey Sharrieff. If it was not for them we would not be where we are today.

“We will continue to strive forward and are all excited to be playing again in a fun-filled family atmosphere for all to enjoy.”